The Rhode Island State Police arrest a subject for Obtaining Money under false pretenses through the use of a gofundme account

Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police and Director of Public Safety, announces the arrest of Alicia Pierini, age 35, of 27 Farm Street, 1st Floor, Woonsocket, Rhode Island on an Affidavit/Arrest Warrant for Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses Over $1,500 and Access to Computer for Fraudulent Purposes.

In May, 2016 the Financial Crimes Unit initiated an investigation into an obtaining money under false pretense complaint. The investigation revealed that Ms. Pierini had advised friends and family members that she had a brain tumor or brain cancer. This revelation resulted in a close associate of Ms. Pierini starting a GoFundMe Account for Ms. Pierini to assist with her medical expenses. Many individuals donated to the GoFundMe Account or directly to Ms. Pierini, totaling approximately $28,000. As time went on, friends and family members became suspicious of her claims that she had cancer. State Police Detectives confirmed that she had never been a patient of any of the doctors and cancer treatment facilities that she had indicated. Upon developing further probable cause to show that Ms. Pierini apparently had not been diagnosed with a brain tumor or brain cancer and was utilizing the donated funds in a fraudulent fashion, an affidavit/ arrest warrant was obtained. GoFundMe will be reimbursing the individuals, who donated directly to the GoFundMe Account.

During the investigation, a photograph was taken of Ms. Pierini, which the State Police is releasing to ensure that if there are any additional victims who wish to come forward, they may contact the Financial Crimes Unit at 401-444-1201. See the below photograph.

Ms. Pierini was presented at Sixth Division District Court, One Dorrance Plaza, Providence, Rhode Island for arraignment. No plea was entered on the felony charges. Ms. Pierini was released on $40,000 personal recognizance.